Extraction of hydrocarbons from Antrim oil shale

The Dow Chemical Company has performed a variety of in situ experiments on the Antrim oil shale which underlies Michigan. These experiments have ranged from in situ combustion in a quarry to attempted extraction at a depth of 2,600 feet (780 m). Currently, Dow is continuing its efforts to obtain hydrocarbons from this resource on a four-year contract (Contract No. EX-76-C-01-2346) in cooperation with the Department of Energy. A site, prepared through explosive fracturing, is being tested. Extensive permeability tests have been performed and attempts have been made at initiating partial combustion within the formation. Extensive laboratory experiments have been coupled with Dow's efforts to recover hydrocarbons in situ. These tests have been carried out under a variety of different atmospheres, pressures, and temperatures and in various types of apparatus. In general, results show that hydrocarbons can be extracted in many ways and the products proceed and yields obtained will vary accordingly.